The Story Behind Luciana’s SCA Scroll

I was cleaning out old images when I stumbled across this gem from way back in 2008. What better excuse to share it than Thursday? Just like when I started this blog and writers called it “Throwback Thursday.”

This is a calligraphy and illumination piece I created for my dear SCA friend, Luciana. Luci was an absolute wizard when it came to historical clothing. She researched and recreated stunning medieval and Renaissance garments. Because of her dedication and skill, she received one of the highest honors in the SCA: a Laurel.

But here’s the twist…

Mistress Luci received the title years earlier, but not the physical award. In the SCA we call that certificate a “scroll.” And it usually is a beautifully crafted, hand-painted item that makes it all official. To make things proper, a mutual friend intervened. She had the right amount of persuasion, or rather, finagling, to get me to create one for Luci. We also organized for it to be presented to her in court. This made the whole thing a big, exciting moment all over again.

Because this was such an important award I went all out. I used real vellum and gold leaf. I chose a rich book style inspired by the early 1600s. (You’ll notice the blank space—that’s where Their Majesties official signatures go.)

Luci passed away a few years after she received this scroll. Her passing saddend all of us in the SCA deeply. She is especially missed in our beloved kingdom of Calontir. Whenever I look back at this piece, I feel joy from that moment. I remember the beauty of Luci’s work and the love our community had for her.

Cheers to Mistress Luciana. Let us also celebrate the art and friendships that make the SCA a wonderful part of our lives. 💜

Would you like to add a favorite memory or special story of Luciana to this post? We would love it, if you would.